Today we’d like to introduce you to Hallie Hamilton.
Hallie, please kick things off for us by telling us about yourself and your journey so far.
From the moment, I could stand on my own, my Mom used to put me in the corner with a Playskool easel, markers and paper and I would entertain myself for hours. I’ve always had a passion for art and that carried me to pursuing Studio Art at The University of Texas at Austin. I appeased my father by pursuing the business foundations certificate at UT which is basically a minor in business, and I have to say, it has been helpful as a self-employed business owner. After graduating, I wasn’t sure if I could “make it as an artist” but after an incredibly kind woman hosted a show of all my college works and many pieces sold, my eyes began to light up to the possibility. I started out with a part time job and began working on commissions for clients. Fast forward seven years later and I’m working full-time an artist in Austin! It has taken a lot of ups and down and my work has continued to evolve but life as an artist is where I think I’ve always belonged.
Can you give our readers some background on your art?
I love using different mediums (oil, charcoal, ink and acrylic) but currently I have been working on two different styles both of which are acrylic on canvas. One style consists of abstracted still-life florals which are very bright, bold and simplistic in nature. These contemporary works are a fresh take on the classic floral still-life. The second style I have been pursuing is based on the oil and gas industry. These incredibly large works are acrylic on canvas and interpret the stratigraphy found in the ground beneath the earth in West Texas. These new works contemplate the cyclical industry in which I grew up surrounded by in Midland, TX.
Do you think conditions are generally improving for artists? What more can cities and communities do to improve conditions for artists?
I think the art industry has shifted very much so due to the presence of social media. Now, artists have a platform to show their work and process in a way that never existed before. Unfortunately, this approach doesn’t allow for viewers of work to see it in person and appreciate it on a physical level. There are pros and cons to this shift.
Cities can improve art and artists presence by marketing to the public the various ways in which you can get involved and see their work. The more galleries, the more public art, the more city art fairs, the more culture a city has to offer. Studies have shown that the public art creates a sense of community and promotes more vibrant communities. Art can be used as a tool to bring a city together.
What’s the best way for someone to check out your work and provide support?
I have floral abstract works available at Bee Street Gallery in Dallas and Fort Worth as well as my “Energy Series II” available at Kelly D Kennedy Fine Art in Midland, TX. I also sell directly from my studio in Austin.
Contact Info:
- Website: halliehamiltonart.com
- Instagram: @halliehamiltonart
Image Credit:
Profile picture: Kate Zimmerman
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